Leading Essex councillor speaks at successful Landlords Event

A leading borough councillor addressed landlords at a special breakfast event aimed at providing information on tenancy management and lettings.
Landlords were invited to the free event run by Basildon Council’s Property Solutions Team, held on Thursday (8 March) at the Holiday Inn, at Festival Leisure Park, Basildon.

Opening the event Cllr Gavin Callaghan, Basildon Council’s Chairman of the Policy and Resources Committee, said: “Working with private landlords enables us to open up housing for those in need and give landlords peace of mind that they will have their rent covered as well as making sure those tenants have been vetted.

“We know that private renting can be a risky business, our scheme gives landlords protection and gives us the housing that we sorely need.

“We recognise the importance of the private rented market and want to work with landlords to protect it and improve conditions for everyone.”

The event provided landlords with a wealth of information about landlord targeted fraud, buy to let mortgages and an overview of residential lettings.

Landlords also received information on the council’s Property Solutions scheme, which offers up to £1,500 cash incentive in exchange for an assured shorthold tenancy being offered to a tenant referred by the council’s housing options team.

As well as a cash bonus, landlords can also benefit from rent in advance, a damage deposit bond, support and expert advice and assistance from the council’s lettings negotiator throughout the life of the tenancy.

The scheme aims to mitigate some of the risks associated with renting properties privately and facilitate the letting of good quality accommodation.